Last updated on March 3rd, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Pakistan is set to make history by sending its first-ever astronaut into space with the help of China. Prime Minister Sharhaq told a meeting with China’s President that Pakistan and China would jointly send a manned mission to the Chinese Space Station (CSS). The event itself is an exceptional step into space advancement for Pakistan, further cementing the already solid friendship between the two countries.
Pakistan in Space
During an occasion convened to mark the event, Shehbaz Sharif, while presenting the mission, described it as a manifestation of China’s friendly support towards Pakistan. He referred to China’s rapid space technology under President Xi Jinping’s leadership and stated that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has already changed the face of Pakistan’s infrastructure and economy.
Training of Astronauts Begins Soon
Under the agreement between the Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) of Pakistan and the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA):
Two Pakistani astronauts will soon be trained at the Astronaut Center of China.
A scientific payload specialist for research on the CSS will be nominated as one of the astronauts.
The astronaut’s final selection by 2026, coordinated with China’s space program.
Scientific Research in Space
The astronaut from Pakistan will conduct research in:
- Medical and biological sciences
- Aerospace and physics
- Microgravity
- Space radiation and ecology
- Material science and astronomy.
This mission will be a further push in Pakistan’s role in space exploration and allow its scientists and researchers to join in global projects.
This Is a Historic for Pakistan!
Planning and Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal remarked that the mission will be historical for Pakistan. A set of major milestones will be achieved through the space partnership:
- Expanding technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship
- New opportunities for space research
- Paving the way for future human spaceflights.
Dr. Lin Xinqiang, Director-General of CMSA, said that Pakistan’s advent is appreciable and reiterated China’s commitment to expanding international space cooperation.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Chairman SUPARCO Mohammad Yousaf Khan urged young scientists, researchers, and professionals to get involved in Pakistan’s growing space program. He stressed that to become a powerful agent in the field of space exploration, an innovative mindset and an ability to adapt to circumstances must be inculcated, coupled with the building of essential space capabilities to groom a new breed of Pakistani space scientists.
The Future of the Pakistani Space Program
Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar termed this a “milestone in the history of space for Pakistan.” Among these points, there are following
Chinese astronauts will be training Pakistani astronauts
Pakistani astronauts will enter space within one year
For the first time, a flag of Pakistan will enter spaceports.
A New Era for Pakistan in Space
Pakistan enters the realm of human spaceflight, courtesy of Chinese support. This historic mission stands for guidance, scientific achievement, and international cooperation. It also marks the commencement of a new phase for Pakistan in the conduct of Space research and exploration concerning her stakes in the global arena for space exploration.
